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Spacecraft Operations Engineer

European Space Agency

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Posted 2 days ago

Join the European Space Agency, a global pioneer in space exploration, as a Spacecraft Operations Engineer in an exciting and evolving field of Earth Observation Missions.

Overview

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No salary declared 😔

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Darmstadt, DE

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Expires at anytime

Organisation Summary

Be a part of the European Space Agency (ESA), a world-leader in space exploration, committed to fostering an inclusive working environment. ESA recognizes the value that diversity brings to the world of space exploration and invites applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of individual characteristics.

Role Summary

  • Join the Earth Observation Missions division and be integral to managing, defining and implementing spacecraft operations.
  • Assist in various operations including nominal, special and contingency operations, as well as spacecraft and ground segment anomaly investigation.
  • Perform as the Acting Spacecraft Operations Manager when required.

Role Requirements

  • Holder of a master’s degree in engineering or physics.
  • At least three years’ experience in flight operations.
  • Prior experience with multi-instrument planning tools.
  • Strong ability to work autonomously and within an interdisciplinary team.

Application Process Details

  • ESA provides accommodations for individuals with disabilities and supports throughout the recruitment process.
  • External candidates remain external for future applications to the Agency.
  • Position may be filled at a lower grade if a candidate has less than four years of relevant experience following master’s degree completion.

The European Space Agency (ESA) is seeking a Spacecraft Operations Engineer to join our Earth Observation Missions Division within the Mission Operations Department at the Directorate of Operations (D/OPS). Our division is tasked with the management, definition, and implementation of spacecraft operations and the flight operations segment of Copernicus Sentinels, from the start of phase B through in-flight commissioning to routine mission operations until the end of the mission.

The Role: You will be initially assigned to the Copernicus Sentinels Imaging Missions Operations Unit and will report to the Head of Unit and the missions Spacecraft Operations Manager (SOM). Your responsibilities will include assisting the SOMs in the definition, preparation, and execution of the missions operations assigned to the Unit. This includes nominal, special, and contingency operations, spacecraft and ground segment anomaly investigation and resolution, performance evaluation, and reporting. You will also perform the role of Acting SOM when delegated and assist in the specification, development, validation, maintenance, and evolution of the ground segment systems and operational products required to conduct mission operations.

Job Requirements: A master's degree in engineering or physics is required. Candidates should have a minimum of three years direct experience in flight operations, demonstrated experience in planning tools used for multi-instrument planning, and interfacing with external and international partners for matters relating to instrument operations. A strong capacity for teamwork, high level of self-motivation, autonomy, and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team are essential.

Benefits: ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities, and support is provided during the recruitment process upon request.

Additional Information: This is a non-renewable post for a limited duration until the end of 2028 and is open for the specific needs of a National Project. The selected external candidate will continue to be considered an external candidate for future applications to the Agency. Recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), but if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.

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